Top Holiday Beauty Trends in South America: What Chilean Shoppers Want This Christmas

The holiday season in South America—especially in Chile—always brings a shift in how people shop, gift, and indulge in beauty products. Christmas shopping has evolved from simply buying perfumes or makeup to exploring global trends, skincare rituals, seasonal essentials, and curated sets that feel personal and thoughtful. As the year ends, Chilean consumers look not only for great gifts but also for products that help them feel refreshed going into the new year.

This article breaks down the current beauty trends shaping holiday shopping in Chile and offers practical tips on choosing the right products during the festive rush.

1. Skincare Over Makeup: Chileans Are Prioritising Skin Health

A major trend across South America is the rise of skincare-first gifting. Chilean buyers, influenced by international beauty routines and K-Beauty culture, are investing more in:

• Hydrating serums (hyaluronic acid, niacinamide)

• Lightweight moisturisers suited for the summer heat

• Sunscreens with clean formulas

• Facial tools like jade rollers or LED devices

• Sheet mask gift sets

This shift is driven by the hot December weather in Chile, which pushes shoppers towards fresh, glowing skin rather than heavy makeup. Gifting a skincare set has become a thoughtful option—practical, long-lasting, and suitable for almost everyone.

Holiday Tip:

Look for products that address summer-specific needs—hydration, oil control, and sun protection.

2. Perfumes Still Lead in Christmas Gifting

Perfumes remain one of the most purchased beauty gifts every Christmas. Chileans often search for international fragrance brands, limited-edition collections, and travel-sized perfume sets.

Popular choices include:

• Warm, festive scents like vanilla, amber, and oud

• Fresh summer-friendly fragrances like citrus, florals, and ocean notes

• Gender-neutral scents, a rising global trend

Perfume sets that include lotions or minis are especially popular because they offer better value and come in ready-to-gift packaging.

Holiday Tip:

Choose fresher fragrances during summer. They last longer in heat and feel more refreshing.

3. Beauty Gift Sets and Holiday Boxes Are Booming

Convenience is a major factor during Christmas shopping, and curated beauty boxes are trending across South America. These sets work both as premium gifts and as budget-friendly options depending on the brand.

Trending categories include:

• Makeup bundles with lipsticks, mascara, and mini palettes

• Self-care boxes with body scrubs, bath bombs, and aromatherapy oils

• Grooming kits for men featuring beard oils, face washes, and colognes

• Skincare "routine kits" for beginners

These sets save shoppers time and reduce decision fatigue—important when stores and online platforms get competitive around the holidays.

Holiday Tip:

Opt for sets that offer a mix of full-size and mini products. They allow the recipient to try more items without you overspending.

4. Sun-Friendly Beauty Is a Must for a Chilean Christmas

Unlike many Western markets preparing for winter, South America enters peak summer during Christmas. This seasonal difference shapes Chile’s beauty priorities:

• High-SPF sunscreens (tinted and non-tinted)

• After-sun gels with aloe vera

• Lightweight foundations or BB creams

• Waterproof makeup for outdoor gatherings

• Hair protectors against UV exposure

Outdoor barbecues, beach outings, and family vacations create demand for long-lasting, heat-resistant essentials.

Holiday Tip:

If you’re gifting beauty products, always consider Chile’s warm holiday climate—choose products that won’t melt, smudge, or feel heavy.

5. Clean Beauty and Vegan Formulas Are Gaining Momentum

Younger Chilean shoppers are consistently leaning toward clean, cruelty-free, and vegan beauty products. This aligns with a global shift toward transparent ingredients and ethical sourcing.

Common searches include:

• Vegan moisturisers

• Paraben-free body washes

• Organic lip balms

• Eco-friendly packaging

Many local and international brands are responding by offering seasonal clean-beauty editions or sustainable gift packaging.

Holiday Tip:

Check ingredient lists and certifications if you’re gifting to someone who prefers eco-conscious beauty.

6. Grooming and Self-Care Gifts for Men Are Increasing

There has been a noticeable rise in men’s grooming purchases during the holiday season. Chilean shoppers are choosing grooming sets as practical and modern gifts.

Popular items include:

• Beard care oils

• All-in-one face kits

• Shaving sets

• Subtle colognes

• Hair styling products

It reflects a broader trend of self-care becoming more gender-inclusive across South America.

Holiday Tip:

If buying for men, go for versatile items—light fragrances, grooming tools, or simple skincare.

7. Beauty Tools and Tech Devices Are Becoming Trendy Gifts

Beauty technology is no longer niche—shoppers in Chile are exploring compact devices that enhance routines.

Trending products include:

• Facial cleansing brushes

• LED therapy masks

• Hair straightening combs

• Mini facial steamers

• Curling wands

• Nail-care machines

They make practical, high-value gifts and often come with holiday discounts.

Holiday Tip:

Choose devices that are beginner-friendly and have good reviews, especially if gifting to teens or first-time users.

8. Global Beauty Brands Are Growing in Popularity

Chilean consumers love exploring beauty products from global markets

• products not always available locally or those priced better internationally. This includes:

• Asian skincare

• U.S. and European perfumes

• International makeup brands

• Specialty beauty tools

Access to global items expands gifting options and lets shoppers explore niche favourites that aren’t found in local stores.

Holiday Tip:

When buying internationally, plan early to ensure smooth delivery before Christmas week.

Final Thoughts

The holiday beauty market in South America—especially in Chile—keeps evolving as shoppers blend global inspiration with local climate needs. From skincare routines and sun-friendly beauty to curated holiday boxes and modern grooming kits, Chileans are choosing gifts that are practical, meaningful, and suited to the warm festive season.

Staying updated with these trends helps shoppers find value and choose gifts that truly resonate with their loved ones during Christmas.

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